WBS & Housing Coops: Tenant Guide Germany
Understanding WBS and Housing Coops
For many families in Germany, the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and housing cooperatives are a route to affordable housing. This section explains the role of the WBS in allocating subsidized housing, how cooperatives provide housing, and what tenants should watch for. We describe typical eligibility requirements, the cooperatives' financial expectations, and the benefits that cooperative shares can bring.
Forms and Documents
For the WBS you generally need an application, proof of income and identity documents; cooperatives often require additional documents such as references or a credit check. An example of an official application package can be found at the Berlin service portal for the WBS.[1]
- Application for the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) — form at the housing office or online.
- Proofs of income — pay slips, benefit notices.
- Identity documents and, if applicable, registration certificate.
Rights, Duties and Legal Bases
Tenants are entitled to basic housing quality; duties and termination rules are found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a and in specific subsidy laws such as the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).[2][1] In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; tenancy disputes and eviction suits are heard there.[3]
Application Process at Cooperatives
Cooperatives usually require an application with forms, presentation of membership conditions, and checks of payment capacity. Some cooperatives work with waiting lists or point systems.
- Complete the cooperative membership and application forms.
- Present required proofs (income, references).
- Attend viewing appointments or information events.
Legal Assistance and Court Action
If negotiations with the landlord or cooperative fail, tenants can assert rent reduction rights or file a lawsuit. Smaller tenancy disputes are heard at the local court; higher instances are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice for fundamental questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for a WBS?
- Individuals and households with low income whose income thresholds are set regionally; the competent authority provides exact requirements.
- How long does WBS issuance take?
- Issuance time varies by office and completeness of documents; expect several weeks.
- Do I have to pay cooperative shares?
- Yes, cooperatives usually require a one-time share payment or equity contribution; conditions are set in the statutes.
How-To
- Find out: Check local WBS requirements and forms at the responsible housing office.
- Gather documents: Prepare proofs of income, IDs and registration certificates.
- Submit application: File the WBS application with the authority (digitally or in person).
- Contact the cooperative: Apply with the required documents and attend viewings.
- Await decision: After positive allocation sign the contract and possibly pay shares.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de
